President Paul Kagame has defended China’s aid and investment strategy as “deeply transformational” and respectful of Africa’s global position.

The Rwandan leader was speaking Monday at the Forum on Africa-China Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing, China.

“China’s actions have demonstrated that a stronger Africa is seen as an opportunity to invest in rather than as a problem or a threat. Today the Forum (FOCAC) has grown into a powerful engine of cooperation fully aligned with Africa’s Agenda 2063 and Sustainable Development Goals,” Kagame said.

“Our growing ties with China do not come at anyone's expense. The gains are enjoyed by all who do business with us. Building the capacity of African institutions to transact and monitor more effectively is what will make the biggest difference.”

Although President Kagame has been a relentless critic of foreign aid, he has held a soft stance towards China’s engagements in Africa because he considers it to be a more respectful partner than Europe and America.

“The relationship between Africa and China is based on equality, mutual respect and a commitment to a shared well-being. Working closely together to assess implementation will further enhance the quality of this process. It is time for Africa to step up as well,” he said.

“We must increase our sense of ownership of joint programmes, improve project management and increase participation by African private sector. It is upon us to articulate our continent’s priorities clearly & consistently with a focus on connectivity to global markets.

Connectivity

President Kagame, who also doubles as the Chairperson of the African Union, said that the continent wishes to be a full and integral part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, which seeks to enhance the country’s connectivity to several regions and continents.

Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Kigali in late July and signed 15 multi million pacts with President Kagame.

As part of the agreements, China will finance the construction of the 66 kilometre road to the new Bugesera International Airport which is currently under construction.

China will also finance the extension of Masaka hospital in Kicukiro district.

Rwanda’s national carrier, RwandAir, is also expected to begin flights to Guangzou in February 2019.

At the ongoing summit in China, President Jinping offered $60 billion in financing for Africa and wrote off debts of several African countries.